Category: NATIONAL

Vijayawada / Nellore, January 9:
The Andhra Pradesh government has sealed a major industrial breakthrough with Tata Power Renewable Energy Limited (TPREL) announcing a ₹6,675 crore investment to establish a 10 GW solar ingot and wafer manufacturing facility in Nellore district. This large-scale greenfield project, approved by the State Investment Promotion Board under Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu’s leadership, is set to position Andhra Pradesh as a key hub for solar component manufacturing in India’s clean energy and semiconductor ambitions. The facility will manufacture critical solar cell components and support India’s broader goals of reducing import dependence in the renewable energy supply chain, while also driving employment generation and attracting further investment into the state’s industrial ecosystem.

Officials said the project will be located within the IFFCO Kisan special economic zone, with approximately 200 acres allocated for initial and future phases. Beyond manufacturing, the plan includes setting up a 200 MW captive renewable power plant to supply energy to the facility, emphasising sustainability. The investment is expected to create around 1,000 direct jobs and significantly more indirect opportunities, boosting regional economic activity and reinforcing Andhra Pradesh’s reputation as an investor-friendly state with strong infrastructure and policy support.

New Delhi, January 8:
The Delhi Assembly witnessed heated scenes during the winter session on Wednesday as Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) MLAs demanded the resignation of Delhi minister Kapil Mishra. The legislators accused Mishra of making controversial remarks and alleged that his conduct was unbecoming of a minister, disrupting the proceedings of the House with slogans and protests.

AAP members insisted that accountability must be fixed and urged the government to take immediate action. The ruckus led to repeated adjournments, with the Speaker appealing for calm and order in the House. Meanwhile, the ruling side rejected the opposition’s allegations, calling them politically motivated. The standoff highlighted the growing political tension in the Delhi Assembly as the winter session continues.

New Delhi, January 8:
The Delhi High Court has directed authorities to conduct a comprehensive citywide survey of government schools to assess compliance with the Right to Education (RTE) Act. The court observed that ensuring uniform implementation of RTE norms is essential to safeguard students’ rights and improve the quality of education in public schools across the national capital.

The bench instructed the concerned departments to evaluate infrastructure, teacher availability, student–teacher ratios, and basic facilities mandated under the RTE Act. It also sought a detailed status report within a stipulated timeframe. Legal experts said the directive could lead to corrective measures in schools found lacking, strengthening accountability and reinforcing the government’s obligation to provide free and compulsory education to children.

Andhra Pradesh, January 8:
Hire bus owners attached to the Andhra Pradesh State Road Transport Corporation have announced a statewide strike starting January 12, citing rising operational costs and inadequate compensation. The operators claimed that increased fuel prices, maintenance expenses, and staff wages have made operations financially unviable under the current reimbursement structure. They demanded a revision in payments to reflect actual operating costs and warned that services would be suspended if their concerns are not addressed.

Transport officials acknowledged the issue and said efforts are underway to hold discussions with the bus owners to resolve the dispute. The proposed strike could impact public transportation across the state, particularly affecting daily commuters, students, and rural passengers. Authorities have urged both sides to engage in dialogue to avoid inconvenience to the public and ensure continuity of transport services.

Andhra Pradesh, January 8:
The India Meteorological Department has forecast moderate rainfall across several districts of Andhra Pradesh over the next few days due to the formation of a low-pressure system over the Bay of Bengal. Weather officials indicated that the system could intensify, bringing intermittent showers ahead of the Sankranti festival. Coastal and interior regions are expected to experience cloudy conditions, with authorities closely monitoring the situation to issue timely advisories.

Officials urged farmers, fishermen, and residents in low-lying areas to remain alert, as sudden rainfall may affect harvesting activities and transportation. Disaster management teams have been placed on standby to respond to any weather-related emergencies. While the rainfall could benefit rabi crops in certain regions, authorities emphasised the need for caution to minimise disruptions during the festive season.

Vijayawada, January 8:
Andhra Pradesh Tourism Development Corporation (APTDC) has launched a new houseboat tourism experience on the Krishna River in Vijayawada, marking a significant expansion of river-based tourism in the state. The initiative aims to offer visitors a unique leisure experience by combining scenic river views with modern hospitality facilities. Officials said the project has been introduced under a public-private partnership model and includes well-equipped houseboats and floating dining facilities operating along select stretches of the Krishna River, particularly near iconic landmarks such as Prakasam Barrage and Pavitra Sangam.

Tourism officials stated that the new service is designed to boost local tourism, generate employment, and attract visitors during major festivals and holiday seasons. The houseboats are expected to operate on scheduled slots, offering sunrise and sunset cruises along with overnight stay options. Authorities believe the initiative will strengthen Vijayawada’s position as a key tourism hub in Andhra Pradesh while promoting sustainable tourism practices. Plans are also underway to expand the project in phases by introducing additional boats and enhanced luxury features based on public response.

Amaravati, January 8:
Andhra Pradesh is gearing up for its first large-scale Republic Day celebrations in Amaravati, with senior officials reviewing extensive preparations to mark the occasion in a grand and dignified manner. Chief Secretary K. Vijayanand directed departments to coordinate closely to ensure seamless arrangements covering sanitation, drinking water, traffic regulation, security deployment, and emergency medical services. Special attention is being given to parade logistics, ceremonial arrangements, and public seating, as the event is expected to witness significant participation from officials, guests, and citizens.

Authorities have also instructed various departments to design thematic tableaux highlighting key welfare initiatives, development programmes, and cultural heritage of the state. Government buildings, including the State Secretariat and Assembly complex, are being illuminated and decorated to enhance the visual appeal of the celebrations. Officials said the event aims to showcase Andhra Pradesh’s administrative vision, cultural identity, and development aspirations, while ensuring public safety and smooth conduct, reflecting the state’s renewed focus on establishing Amaravati as its administrative and ceremonial capital.

New Delhi / Vijayawada, January 8:
Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu on Thursday met Union Home Minister Amit Shah in New Delhi and urged the Centre to grant statutory status to Amaravati by introducing a bill in Parliament, describing the move as crucial for the long-term growth and stability of the state’s capital region. Naidu underlined that formal parliamentary recognition would reinforce investor confidence, provide policy certainty and accelerate infrastructure and development projects in Amaravati. He also pressed for flexibility in Centre-State funding ratios and additional financial support to ease the fiscal burden on Andhra Pradesh, underscoring concerns related to implementation of the new VB-G-RAM-G scheme and its financial implications for the state. The discussions also covered ongoing welfare programmes and key development priorities to bolster sustainable growth.

Chennai, January 7:
DMK leader TKS Elangovan on Wednesday commented on the recent political alignment of the Pattali Makkal Katchi (PMK) with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), stating that the PMK joined the alliance because it “had no other option.” Speaking to the media, Elangovan suggested that the move reflects strategic necessity rather than ideological alignment, implying that the PMK’s decision was driven by political survival and electoral considerations. He also criticised the BJP for attempting to expand its influence in Tamil Nadu through opportunistic alliances, asserting that the party’s outreach lacks a strong grassroots base in the state.

Elangovan’s remarks have sparked debate in political circles, with analysts noting that Tamil Nadu’s dynamic political landscape often leads regional parties to form alliances based on expediency rather than ideological commitment. He further emphasised that voters are discerning and capable of recognising alliances formed out of compulsion rather than genuine intent to serve public interest. Observers said the comments are part of a broader narrative by the DMK to position itself as the party most aligned with local interests, contrasting with national parties and their recent coalition strategies. The statement also sets the tone for the upcoming elections, where alliances and seat-sharing arrangements are expected to play a decisive role in shaping voter sentiment across the state.

New Delhi, January 7:
New Delhi Municipal Council (NDMC) Vice Chairperson Chahal on Wednesday described the Union Budget for 2026-27 as “comprehensive and forward-looking,” highlighting its focus on infrastructure development, social welfare, and fiscal prudence. Chahal noted that the budget addresses key urban challenges, including public health, sanitation, and sustainable development, while also promoting technological innovation and digital governance. According to him, the proposals reflect a balanced approach to revenue generation and expenditure, aiming to benefit both citizens and businesses across the capital.

Chahal further emphasised that the budget’s allocation for urban projects and municipal services will enhance the quality of life in New Delhi, enabling better roads, improved water supply, efficient waste management, and modern civic amenities. He praised the government for considering the long-term implications of policy measures, particularly those supporting education, health, and environmental sustainability. Analysts suggest that the endorsement from NDMC leadership underscores the importance of collaborative efforts between central authorities and local governance bodies in implementing the budget effectively. The Vice Chairperson called upon municipal departments and stakeholders to leverage these provisions to maximise developmental outcomes and ensure that citizens reap tangible benefits from the 2026-27 financial plan.